Evolution has always been an essential aspect of any business. For most, it presents an avenue to evolve a brand, adding a new dynamic to what it can offer and bringing it to both market and consumer. This is a concept that The Macallan fully embraces. In recent years, we have seen the renowned Scotch whisky maker enhancing its offerings in the market, providing consumers, aficionados and connoisseurs with a range of delectable spirits to savour and enjoy.

The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao stands as the latest evolution of the renowned label. A unique collaboration that brings the worlds of chocolate and whisky together, the limited edition whisky is the result of a partnership between Polly Logan, whisky maker for The Macallan, and world-renowned pastry chef Jordi Roca. 

To create the first edition in this new limited annual release series, Logan embarked on a unique journey to Girona, Spain, where she immersed herself in the world of chocolate. She explored the chocolate-making process and uncovered the distinctive flavour profiles. With the expertise of Roca, the youngest of the acclaimed Roca brothers of El Celler de Can Roca, with whom The Macallan has a long-standing relationship, The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao was born. 

"The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is a wonderful expression which brings together the world of whisky with the fascinating world of chocolate," says Logan. Through working in collaboration with Roca, acknowledged as one of the best and most creative pastry chefs in the world, and with exceptional chocolatier Damian Allsop, Logan embarked on a journey of discovery, learning of the craftsmanship, passion and creativity that goes into making chocolate.

"Our collaboration with The Macallan allows us to challenge our own creativity, and in this project, we have been allowed to play with cacao, which is one of my passions," explains Roca. "Being able to inspire a whisky and create a unique tasting experience has been wonderful."

While immersing herself in the world of chocolate, Logan discovered that it had great synergy with the whisky-making process. Both processes take time and exceptional attention to detail, with the slightest changes encouraging different aromas and flavours to emerge. For this unique expression, Logan sought out specific chocolate notes in The Macallan's traditional sherry-seasoned European oak casks. She then sought out vanilla notes imparted by sherry-seasoned American oak casks to add a touch of sweetness. 

This harmonious combination of European and American oak casks has produced an exceptionally rich single malt whisky characterised by a deep, dark chocolate profile. With a rich colour reminiscent of toasted cocoa beans along with aromas of chocolate fondant, honey, oak, zesty lime and ginger, it adds a distinctive new dimension to The Macallan experience. 

On the palate, The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao offers notes of dark chocolate, honey, dates, vanilla and cinnamon before culminating in a long and luscious finish accentuated with rich chocolate. The exquisite whisky pairs perfectly with the richest chocolate for a luxurious sensorial experience. 

The limited edition whisky is also the first in an innovative new series of single malts that marks The Macallan's progress towards sustainable packaging. Sustainability has been a constant guiding principle for The Macallan since it began crafting its single malt whisky in perfect harmony with the beautiful nature surrounding The Macallan Estate in Scotland's Speyside in 1824. 

The Harmony Collection further explores the world of sustainable packaging, fusing innovative techniques with materials from the natural world that are at the end of their life, to see them reborn with a renewed purpose. 

As homage to its chocolate inspiration, The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao comes encased in a beautiful fully-recyclable and biodegradable presentation box made with a natural by-product of the chocolate-making process - discarded husks of cacao pods. 

The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao serves as an adventurous exploration of the sensuous relationship between chocolate and whisky. By bringing together both worlds, The Macallan has paved the way forward for premium single malts. By showcasing its ingenuity in merging flavours and its unwavering approach to sustainability in the Harmony Collection Rich Cacao, The Macallan has set the standard for premium whiskies in presentation, taste and forward-thinking.

The Macallan Harmony Collection Rich Cacao is retailing at RM 690 and will be available at selected premium Supermarkets, bars, and restaurants from 1st May 2022. For further information visit https://www.themacallan.com/en-my/whisky/single-malts/limited-releases/the-harmony-collection/rich-cacao.